The contest has been held in the village since the mid-20th century (Picture: Getty Images)

The Stilton Community Association announced the decision on Facebook (Picture: Getty Images)

Posting on Facebook, the Stilton Community Association confirmed that after months of discussion, the race would be cancelled.

The post said: ‘In recent years there has been a disappointing lack of enthusiasm for taking part in the cheese rolling. In 2017 there were only two teams registered. Eventually enough teams emerged, but to make a real contest we need 12 to 16 men’s teams and eight to 12 ladies’ teams. We have not come anywhere near these targets for four years.

‘The young people are marginally more keen to join in, but it is no longer seen as “cool”.’

It added: ‘We are sorry to disappoint all those who have taken part, some for many years. We regret the loss of revenue by both local businesses and village organisations, and we have the task of cancelling many attractions that come year after year – but it appears that times have changed, and perhaps some other people will come forward with new ideas.’

The decision has sparked a massive backlash in Stilton (Picture: Getty Images)

The cheese rolling has been held on May Day every year (Picture: Getty Images)

It’s the end of an era (Picture: Getty Images)

The announcement sparked a major backlash from Stilton locals.

Dave Skelton commented: ‘Why weren’t people (villagers) informed that the organisers had become tired and needed fresh input before making this momentous decision about this annual event.’